Belleville man pleads no-contest to Jessica’s Law charge

Jose I. Cuellar, 52, pleaded no-contest to one count of rape of a child. Chief Judge Kim W. Cudney accepted the plea in Republic County District Court. The crime occurred in August 2017. The charge falls under Jessica’s Law because the victim was under 14 years of age.

Sentencing is scheduled for April 9 at 1 p.m.

The case was investigated by the Republic County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant Attorney General Will Manly and Acting Deputy Attorney General Melissa Johnson of Schmidt’s office are prosecuting the case.